Dimorphotheca ecklonis
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Dimorphotheca ecklonis

Vanstaden's river daisy · Blue-and-white daisy-bush · Bedding marigold · Van Staden's daisy · African daisy

Tier 2 Difficulty: medium Water: low Light: full_sun Toxicity: low
Temperature
15–37 °C
Soil pH
5–6
Hardiness
Zone 7–11
Click count
429
Observations
7,814

Description

Source: leafsnap

Dimorphotheca ecklonis, also known as Cape marguerite, Van Staden's river daisy, Sundays river daisy, white daisy bush, blue-and-white daisy bush, star of the veldt is an ornamental plant that is native to South Africa. It is now regarded as a weed in parts of Australia, particularly Victoria and Western Australia.

🌳 Although it resembles an ordinary daisy, cape marguerite hides a surprising secret. Native to Africa, it is used in the cleaning sector. Extracts from cape marguerite are included in environmentally friendly cleaning products because of the plant's powerful natural cleansing properties, illustrating nature's ability to provide sophisticated solutions. This seemingly common plant is transforming the detergent market through its sustainable contribution.

🎭 Stillness, purity, naivety

Care Guide

💧 Water
☀️ Light Full sun

The cape marguerite grows most vigorously with ample sunlight, which supports its strong development. While it tolerates shadier locations, it gains the most vigor from plentiful sun. Its native occurrence in bright environments explains this preference. Excessive sun can cause stress, whereas insufficient light can limit flowering and growth.

Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 15–37.8°C

Cape marguerite prospers in its native habitat when specific temperature conditions are met. It favors temperatures ranging from 15 to 38 °C (59 to 100.4 °F). As a temperate woody plant, it adjusts well to different climates. Temperature modifications may be needed across seasons. Protecting it from extreme cold and ensuring good ventilation in cooler periods, while providing shade and sufficient watering during hotter months, supports its optimal growth and vigor.

Ideal temperature: 15–37.8°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 5-6
Soil pH: 5-6
🌱 Fertilizer

The best time to fertilize a Cape marguerite is in early spring, as it comes out of dormancy and starts active growth. Fertilizing supplies essential nutrients for healthy development. Although Cape marguerite requires relatively little feeding, applying fertilizer annually can improve its survival and encourage better, longer-lasting blooms.

🪴 Pot & Repot 2-3 years

When repotting Cape marguerite, select a pot 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger with ample drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, ensuring the root ball is slightly lower than the rim of the flower pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.

Suggested frequency: 2-3 years
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Dimorphotheca
Family
Asteraceae
Hardiness Zone
7-11
Mature Height
0.2 m to 1.52 m
Mature Spread
0.61 m to 1.22 m
Leaf Color
Green, Silver
Leaf Type
Evergreen, Deciduous
Flower Color
White, Purple
Flower Size
5.08 cm to 10.16 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Early fall
Planting Time
Spring
Harvest Time
Late spring, Summer, Fall
Native Area
South Africa

Tags (11)

Common Names (5)

en Vanstaden's river daisy
en Blue-and-white daisy-bush
en Bedding marigold
en Van Staden's daisy
en African daisy